Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that feels both hearty and refreshingly light, then this Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe has got you covered in the best way possible. Combining tender rotini pasta with perfectly sautéed broccoli, nutrient-packed kale, and flaky wild albacore tuna, all brought together by a creamy Caesar dressing, this dish is a celebration of texture and taste. It’s quick to prepare, wonderfully satisfying, and makes a perfect lunch or dinner for anyone looking to enjoy something wholesome yet indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity, using fresh and familiar ingredients that balance each other perfectly. Each element brings something unique: the pasta provides a comforting base, the broccoli adds a lovely bite and color, the kale contributes earthiness and nutrients, and the tuna delivers a rich, savory punch.

• 8 oz box rotini pasta: I love using Banza pasta here for its texture and added protein, but any rotini will do.
• 1 Tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Helps to gently cook the broccoli while adding a subtle fruitiness.
• 3 cups broccoli florets: Fresh and bright, they bring a tender crunch and vibrant green to the salad.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the broccoli and balancing flavors throughout the dish.
• 1 bunch lacinato kale (finely sliced): Adds a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and a hearty chew.
• 3 5 oz cans wild albacore tuna in water: Drained and flaked, this gives the salad a rich, protein-packed boost.
• ¼ cup Caesar dressing: Creamy and tangy, it ties all the ingredients nicely together.
• ½ cup sliced Parmesan cheese: For an irresistible, salty finish sprinkled over the top.

How to Make Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Boil the pasta

Start by filling a large pot halfway with water and bringing it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add your rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. This makes sure your pasta has just the right bite—neither too soft nor too firm, serving as the perfect canvas for all the other flavors to shine. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the broccoli

While your pasta is cooking, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once you see the oil shimmer, it’s time to add the broccoli florets seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the broccoli cook for 10 minutes or until it’s tender and has developed a lovely golden-brown color. This little bit of caramelization brings out its natural sweetness and adds that satisfying chew, elevating the salad’s texture beautifully.

Step 3: Toss everything together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely sliced lacinato kale, drained and flaked wild albacore tuna, cooked pasta, and creamy Caesar dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that the dressing coats each piece evenly, marrying all the flavors into a harmonious whole. The kale wilts slightly from the warmth of the pasta, making every bite tender yet substantial.

Step 4: Serve and garnish

Divide the bowl’s bounty onto four plates. Top each serving with the golden broccoli and a generous sprinkle of sliced Parmesan cheese. The cheese adds a nutty, salty flair that’s just the cherry on top for this vibrant salad. Serve immediately for the freshest taste experience.

How to Serve Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

One of the joys of this salad is how beautifully it takes on extras. A sprinkling of toasted pine nuts or a few crispy capers can add an exciting crunch, while a drizzle of lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more. Don’t shy away from adding fresh cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes to bring subtle warmth if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

This Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe stands proudly on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides. Think crusty garlic bread or a simple mixed greens salad with a bright vinaigrette. For an even heartier meal, grilled chicken or shrimp make excellent companions without overwhelming the salad’s delicate flavor balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a refreshing twist, try serving this salad chilled straight from the fridge on warm days, letting the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Alternatively, layer it in a mason jar with alternating pasta, kale, and broccoli for a grab-and-go lunch packed with both style and substance. It also shines as a colorful buffet option for family gatherings or potlucks—guaranteed to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Because of the Caesar dressing and kale, it holds its flavor and texture much better than most pasta salads, making it perfect if you want to prepare ahead or enjoy leftovers without feeling like you’re eating last week’s meal.

Freezing

While freezing pasta salads is usually tricky due to texture changes, this particular Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe isn’t ideal for freezing. The kale and Caesar dressing may become watery or mushy after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated instead.

Reheating

If you prefer your salad warm, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring halfway through. Avoid overheating to keep the tuna flaky and the vegetables tender without losing their vibrancy. Otherwise, the salad tastes fantastic at room temperature or chilled.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding onto dressing, penne, fusilli, or farfalle would work beautifully as well. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use wild albacore tuna?

Wild albacore tuna offers a mild flavor and firm texture that complements this salad perfectly, but you can substitute with canned chunk light tuna if needed. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

You certainly can! Simply omit the tuna and add extras like chickpeas or roasted chickpeas to maintain that protein punch. Adding toasted nuts or seeds also adds crunch and nutrition.

How long does the salad keep its freshness?

This salad stays fresh and tasty for up to 3 days refrigerated. The kale and dressing help preserve it without sogginess, but for best flavor, enjoy it within the first two days.

Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?

Yes, store-bought Caesar dressing works great if you’re short on time. For a more personalized touch, whisk in some fresh garlic or anchovy paste to amplify the classic flavors.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe enough when you want something that’s fresh, nutritious, and downright delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a delightful way to enjoy seafood and greens together with the comforting embrace of pasta. Give it a try next time you want a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl—you won’t be disappointed!

Tuna, Broccoli, and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 9 reviews

This Tuna, Broccoli and Kale Caesar Pasta Salad is a quick and nutritious meal combining al dente rotini pasta, tender sautéed broccoli, fresh kale, wild albacore tuna, and creamy Caesar dressing. Topped with sliced Parmesan cheese, this salad offers a perfect balance of protein, greens, and flavor in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal lunch or light dinner.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Pasta

• 1 8 oz box rotini pasta (Banza chickpea pasta recommended)

Vegetables and Protein

• 1 Tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bunch lacinato kale, finely sliced
• 3 cans (5 oz each) wild albacore tuna in water, drained and broken up

Dressing and Garnish

• ¼ cup Caesar dressing
• ½ cup sliced Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

1. Boil pasta: Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and boil until al dente according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
2. Cook broccoli: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the broccoli florets and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the broccoli for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the finely sliced kale, drained and flaked tuna, cooked pasta, and Caesar dressing until everything is evenly coated and well combined.
4. Serve: Divide the pasta salad mixture evenly onto four plates. Top each serving with the sautéed broccoli and sprinkle with sliced Parmesan cheese for a flavorful finish. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

• Using Banza chickpea pasta increases protein and fiber content compared to traditional pasta.
• Feel free to substitute any Caesar dressing brand or make your own for a fresher taste.
• For a lighter option, reduce the amount of olive oil or Parmesan cheese.
• This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to one day; kale may wilt over time.
• To make it dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.